Interim Principal Planning Officer - Strategic Projects
East London | 3-Month Rolling Contract | £50-£60 per Hour
A public sector organisation in East London is seeking an experienced Interim Principal Planning Officer to join its Development Management team on a 3-month rolling contract, paying £50-£60 per hour. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior planning professional to take a leading role in managing complex development proposals, shaping place-making outcomes, and supporting the delivery of sustainable growth across a diverse urban environment.
The Role
As Principal Planning Officer, you will lead on a varied portfolio of complex planning applications and development management matters, acting as a senior figure within the team. You will provide expert planning advice, represent the organisation at committees and inquiries, and support the development of junior planning officers.
Key Responsibilities
Lead on complex planning applications, pre-application advice, and negotiations with developers.
Secure planning obligations and community benefits through Section 106 agreements.
Coordinate and manage planning appeals, representing the organisation at hearings, inquiries, and written representations.
Prepare and present reports to Planning Committees and senior stakeholders.
Mentor and support junior planning staff, providing technical guidance and professional development.
Deputise for the Development Management Team Leader when required.
Engage with developers, residents, elected members, and key stakeholders across the borough.
Drive service improvement initiatives, contribute to policy reviews, and support the enhancement of planning processes and performance.Essential Requirements
Postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
Significant experience within Development Management at a senior level.
Strong knowledge of current planning legislation, planning policy, and development management processes.
Experience preparing and presenting evidence at planning appeals, inquiries, hearings, and committees.
Proven ability to manage complex caseloads and work with minimal supervision.
Experience mentoring or supervising junior planning professionals.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
Commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-focused public services.Why Apply?
£50-£60 per hour competitive contract rate.
Opportunity to work on high-profile development projects within a busy London local authority environment.
Strategic and influential role with significant stakeholder engagement.
3-month rolling contract with potential for extension.
Opportunity to mentor and develop planning professionals while contributing to key regeneration and development projects.Apply now if you're an experienced planning professional looking to make an immediate impact within a forward-thinking public sector organisation in East London. For more information call Ben Styles on (phone number removed)
RG Setsquare is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy
